TAMPA, Fla., Dec. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Yesterday, Hillsborough County Public Schools approved Florida Virtual Academy (FLVA), a new public charter school open to all families in Hillsborough County.  The online public school will initially serve students in grades K-8 next school year and plans to expand and offer high school grades in the following years.

With the approval of Florida Virtual Academy, families throughout Hillsborough County – the eighth largest school district in the U.S. – will have access to an innovative public school program offering students individualized learning programs through state-of-the-art digital courses, powerful technology, and high quality instruction from Florida-certified teachers.

The Southwest Florida Virtual Charter School Board of Trustees, the schools' independent, nonprofit governing board, said Florida Virtual Academy at Hillsborough County expands educational options for families.

"Florida Virtual Academy at Hillsborough County gives parents throughout one of America's largest school districts access to a high quality public school," said Southwest Florida Virtual Charter School Board member Chairwoman Wendy Howard.  "Online schools give parents more options and choices in public education.  They are designed to meet the unique and individual needs of children using digital learning programs customized for each student.    Our board is grateful to Hillsborough County Public Schools for approving our school application and we look forward to working closely with the district to make Florida Virtual Academy at Hillsborough a success."

Florida Virtual Academy at Hillsborough County will use the award-winning curriculum, technology, and school services provided by K12 Inc. (NYSE: LRN), America's largest provider of online school programs for grades kindergarten through high school.  K12 is a state-approved provider of online school programs.  K12's courses and academic programs are used in over 2,000 school districts nationwide, including over 40 school districts and public charter schools in Florida.

The Florida Virtual Academy school program first began serving families across the state in 2003 as an approved program of the Florida Department of Education.  The school has served thousands of students – from advanced learners to children with special needs – and has a history of strong academic results, earning high grades from the state and high levels of satisfaction from parents and students.  Florida-certified teachers provide instruction, guidance and support, and interact regularly with students using innovative technology and web-based classrooms. Teachers also organize school field trips, activities, clubs, and events for students and families.

The Florida Virtual Academy at Hillsborough County will follow all state accountability standards and requirements, including attendance requirements and participation in state assessments.

Florida Virtual Academy public charter schools are currently operating in Palm Beach, Broward, Duval, Pasco and Osceola counties.  In addition to Hillsborough County, Pinellas and Clay counties have also approved Florida Virtual Academy charter schools to open in 2014.

SOURCE Florida Virtual Academy